I grew up in New Mexico so all my Michigan family was far away. Fortunately growing up we got out there for family reunions fairly regularly. I’m the youngest, so being around my younger cousins was different and very cool. Mitch always had personality, kindness and comedic timing just radiating off of him. I remember one time at Uncle Tom and Aunt Marianne’s I was playing cards with Mitch and Nathaniel and others. Nate brought his “favorite cards” from home, and the box was falling apart. He explained that the cards were perfect even though the box was in bad shape, so could we play with them? Mitch chimed in with great timing in a strangely thick Boston accent, “The box is trash, but the cahhds are good!”
The other Mitch-funny I’ve never forgotten was at my brother Estevan and Lori’s wedding in Cincinnati. The rehearsal dinner was at a fancy restaurant downtown, Becki and everyone showed up with the kids, and there was this large painting, abstract nude of people dancing in a garden (nothing graphic but artistically scandalizing for the little ones). Mitchell came to the table, I asked how he was, and wide eyed he said, “I came in for dinner and everything looks so nice; then I looked up at that painting and it STARTLED me!” He was one of a kind, I miss him, and will never forget him.
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One night Mitchell had some of our friends from youth group over late at his mom’s house. I happened to be grounded that night, but I decided to sneak out (we lived in the same neighborhood) to go hang out with my friends. As I walked in the dark through our neighborhood, a guy started walking towards me and I began panicking! But then I got a text from Mitch and the guy started waving and I realized the mysterious guy was Mitchell! I was like “what are you going? You left your own party?!” And his response was simple and truly shows his character… “I couldn’t let you walk alone in the dark.” I even had a boyfriend at the time, so he wasn’t trying to make a romantic gesture, it was his big brother instincts kicking in and his huge heart. I am so greatful to have shared the memories I have with Mitch and experience his love for people first hand. ♥️
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2018, Van Andel Arena, Fulton Street West, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
One of my favorite memories- “Little Big Town “ concert
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Becki, Randy, Macie, Sierra and the entire Visser family, we are so very saddened to hear about Mitch passing. Our hearts are broken for you. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Hoping your wonderful memories fill a spot in your heart.
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Randy, Becki, and EVERY FAMILY MEMBER who loved Mitchell. My heart was crushed at the news of Mitchell leaving earth for heaven. My heart is broken for each of you, but can rejoice that “Jesus is healer”. That picture could not be more beautiful and those words be more true. I was blessed by Mitchell in his photography, writings, and creativity on Instagram. What a brilliant mind and tender heart to be able to see blessings all around him. He was able to look beyond the clutter and bring out the spectacular that is near if we only have eyes to see. You do not walk alone and you are very near to our hearts during this painful time.
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Randy and the Visser family, my condolences for your loss. I will pray for your healing and peace be with ya'll.
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Dear Visser Family,
I met Mitch during my first year at Grand Valley in one of our film classes and we became instant friends. Mitch had that effect on everyone, he was charming, funny, and an extremely gifted filmmaker. Bumping into Mitch in the halls of the Lake Superior building is one of my favorite memories of my time at GVSU. He would always shout "JILL!" and proceed to wrap me up in one of his fantastic bear hugs. When I graduated and moved to New York City he was such an enthusiastic supporter, I always felt honored to have him as a friend. Mitch had the most infectious smile, he brightened everyone's days. He will be dearly missed by so many, sending my most sincere condolences to your family at this unimaginable time.
Love,
Jillian
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Dear Visser Family, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Mitch. I remember him helping out in church. He was always so polite and kind and always had a great smile! I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
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My deepest heartfelt sympathy thoughts and prayers for all your family that God gently carries you and comforts you on this huge journey as you mourn and grieve the loss of. Mitch.
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Mitch brought so much joy to the classroom and to the film set. The twinkle in his eyes revealed his kindness and passion, making him someone special to collaborate with. His ability to see beauty made him a cinematographer in every sense of the word. I'm so deeply saddened by this loss to our media making community, but especially to Becki and all of the Visser family. Mitch was fortunate to be so loved and supported by you. My heart breaks for you and for Mitch.
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